Arsenal’s preparations for the upcoming UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid have been dealt a significant blow with the injury to defender Riccardo Calafiori. The 22-year-old sustained a knee injury during Italy’s Nations League quarter-final against Germany, raising concerns about his availability for the crucial European clash.

Calafiori’s injury occurred when he slipped and landed awkwardly, prompting fears of a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) issue, especially given his history of severe knee problems. Despite completing the match, subsequent evaluations have identified a first-to-second-degree collateral ligament injury. This diagnosis suggests a recovery period of approximately two to three weeks, ruling him out of the first leg against Real Madrid on April 8 at the Emirates Stadium.

This setback adds to Arsenal’s growing list of absentees. Key attacking players Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are also expected to miss the first leg due to injuries. Additionally, Raheem Sterling is suspended for the fixture after accumulating yellow cards. However, there is a glimmer of hope as Bukayo Saka aims to return from his hamstring injury in time for the Real Madrid encounter.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, will be without midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni for the first leg due to suspension. They are also monitoring the fitness of defender Ferland Mendy, who suffered a hamstring injury during their recent match against Atletico Madrid.

The first leg of the quarter-final is scheduled for April 8 at the Emirates Stadium, with the return leg set for April 16 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Both teams will be eager to field their strongest possible lineups as they vie for a place in the semi-finals of Europe’s premier club competition.